An exciting new app which allows independent retail, leisure and hospitality owners to offer customers a digital loyalty scheme is being launched in the UK.
Introducing Llama Points, an innovative app which allows flexible promotions that can be set up for as little as ten minutes.
Aimed at helping small businesses generate more customers as well as giving customers the convenient alternative to paper-based loyalty schemes because let's be honest, we're always losing those half-stamped cards.
After successfully launching in Switzerland in 2023, the app is now being rolled out to the UK with several businesses in Leeds being the first to sign up - how lucky are we?
Llama Points was developed and created in Switzerland by BFM Solutions, a tech organisation, founded by British ex Pats, Fergus Rae and Bernadette Haslam with Swedish software engineer Pat Magnus Johansson.
Using the app is simple, all customers need to do is scan their phone each time they make a purchase, they will then be able to see when they have collected enough points to claim a free item or in-store promotion.
Llama Points co-founder, Fergus Rae said: “We created Llama Points to make a difference for all small businesses, by making a digital loyalty program available to everybody! The retail and hospitality sectors have faced huge challenges in recent years, customers are being much more cautious with their spending, and always looking for value”.
“We want to benefit both and keep the high street alive, by helping small businesses to drive footfall and contribute back to the local economy whilst enabling them to get greater visibility and easily reward their loyal customers.”
Llama Points is available to download across all mobile platforms, find out more here via their website.
Rachel Woolford, the winner of the BBC’s ‘The Apprentice’, has revealed plans to launch her first joint business with Lord Sugar.
The exciting new business venture will see Leeds local Rachel expand her hugely successful fitness space, North Studio, to offer a dedicated Reformer Pilates studio - right next door.
Lord Sugar has partnered with Rachel to purchase the commercial premises which will be part of the expansion of the existing Leeds studio and will add to North Studio’s Pilates offering with an extra 120 classes a month.
Image: Supplied
Former business management student turned fitness entrepreneur Rachel beat pie shop owner, Phil Turner, in the recent final of the The Apprentice with both pitching to Lord Sugar to win £250,000 and go into business with him.
Speaking about the investment Lord Sugar said: "Our acquisition of the commercial premises marks not only a significant milestone for North Studio but also a bold step forward in our new business partnership.
"This project brings an expansion of the existing North Studio offering is a direct response to the growing demand in the fitness industry for Reformer Pilates”.
Image: Supplied
Speaking on the expansion Rachel said: “At North Studio, we're all about delivering the highest quality, small group personalised fitness experiences. With investment from Lord Sugar, we are now able to achieve the next stage in our planned growth with the addition of a fantastic new space dedicated to Reformer Pilates that is still in keeping with our boutique studio vibe.
“I am extremely excited to start this new chapter in partnership with Lord Sugar and the team is working hard to bring the new studio to life ready to welcome clients.”
For more information about North Studio, check out their website.
Popular LGBTQ-friendly Leeds coffee shop put up for sale with an asking price of £45,000
Clementine Hall
Flamingos Coffee House in Leeds' Central Arcade on Briggate has recently been put up for sale.
Providing a safe and welcoming space for everyone in the LGBTQ community, Flamingos Coffee House is a well known spot amongst locals.
Serving up delicious cakes, sandwiches and hot drinks, it's also known for their numerous events held during the week such as open mic nights, student Sundays and loads more.
Constantly raising money for LGBTQ charities, it's a real asset to the city.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Flamingos has recently gone up for sale, with an asking price of £44,950.
The ad listing states: "Ernest Wilson are delighted to bring to market this immaculately presented city centre coffee shop. Our client has operated this business since 2023, during which time the premises have undergone an extensive refurbishment throughout and really must be seen to be appreciated.
"The business trades in easy hours over six days, opening at 10.30am daily – wonderful scope for enthusiastic new owners to consider opening earlier to develop the breakfast trade and boost turnover.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
"The premises occupy a prime trading position within a busy shopping arcade in the heart of Leeds City Centre with thousands of people passing daily. The premises are held on secure lease and comprise glass fronted coffee shop providing 26 covers in comfort."
This coffee shop is a real asset to the city and we hope it gains a wonderful new owner to maintain Flamingos in all its glory.
Clementine Hall -
3rd October 2024 
